Walking Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui, or Mauao, stands as a sentinel between the harbour and the Pacific, its slopes offering both challenge and reward. The network of walking tracks here caters to all levels of fitness.
Maunganui Summit Track
A favoured ascent for those seeking a spirited morning effort, the Maunganui Summit Track is a steep but rewarding climb. The route alternates between stone stairs and natural steps carved into the hillside, offering moments to pause and peer down at the harbour entrance spilling into the bay. At the 232-metre summit, take in a full 360° vista: to the west, the ramparts of the Kaimai Range; to the east, endless blue stretching toward Mayor Island. On clear days, the volcanic cone of White Island punctuates the horizon.
The Base Track
For a gentler experience, the Base Track traces the edge of Pilot Bay, looping around its calm waters in roughly 45 minutes. This flat, even path is lined with mature pōhutukawa trees whose gnarled branches lean over the water, creating a cathedral of green and gold. There are multiple benches along the way, offering restful spots to watch yachts drift by or to savor a picnic beneath the whispering canopy.
Mount Maunganui Dining
Tauranga’s culinary landscape blends the bounty of the Bay of Plenty with global flair, presenting dishes that spotlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
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Rice Rice Baby: A celebrated modern Vietnamese eatery on Maunganui Road, known for its share‑style dishes and vibrant décor.
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Alpino: A stylish Italian restaurant offers wood‑fired pizzas, handmade pasta and an extensive wine list. Its airy, light‑filled interior and friendly service make it a local favourite for both casual lunches and romantic dinners.
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Fife Lane: Awarded for its innovative use of a Mibrasa charcoal grill, Fife Lane pairs premium meats and seafood with an industrial‑chic atmosphere.
Activities in Mount Manganui
Mount Maunganui Main Beach stretches in a flawless arc of ivory sand washed by gentle surf. Experienced swimmers ride the consistent breaks, while sheltered pockets closer to shore invite novices and little ones.
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruises
Daily departures from Tauranga’s waterfront whisk you into the inner harbour in search of playful bottlenose dolphins, curious fur seals and the occasional little blue penguin. Choose between licensed operators such as Orca Wild Adventures, known for intimate small-boat experiences and expert naturalists, or New Zealand Dolphin Safari, which offers eco-conscious tours with guaranteed dolphin sightings.
The Kewpie Ferry Cruise
Step aboard the lovingly restored Kauri timber ferry, affectionately named “The Kewpie” for a leisurely harbour tour reminiscent of decades past. Plush seating, a licensed bar and engaging commentary combine history and hospitality, whether you choose a sunlit afternoon cruise or a candlelit sunset voyage.
Stand-up Paddle Boarding at Pilot Bay Beach
Another crowd favourite is Pilot Bay Beach at the base of Mauao/Mount Maunganui. The calm, sheltered waters are perfect for leisurely days on the water. Hire a stand-up paddle board from Mauao Adventures and glide across the bay.
Walk to Moturiki Island
Moturiki Island, visible just off the coast of Mount Maunganui’s main beach, is rich in history, from its origins as a Māori pā to a quarry and former marine attraction. Today it is a restored nature reserve connected by a man-made causeway. A well-marked track leads to a natural blowhole and superb Pacific Ocean viewpoints, making for a memorable daily stroll.
Mount Hot Pools
Nestled in the heart of Mount Maunganui, Mount Hot Pools offers geothermal relaxation with pools ranging from approximately 31°C for children to around 38°C for those seeking deeper heat. Overlooking Mauao, it’s an ideal way to unwind after a day of adventure.
Sail to Moutohora Island
Moutohora Island, otherwise known as Whale Island, is a New Zealand treasure. This oasis is one of the best places to see New Zealand’s rare and endangered plants, birds and reptiles.
Where to stay in Mount Maunganui
Evenings spent by the water call for holiday parks that cater to motorhome travellers, offering both convenience and comfort beneath the Southern Cross.
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Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park: Nestled between ocean and harbour beaches at Mauao’s base, this award‑winning park provides powered sites, modern dump stations and direct beach access—ensuring you wake each morning to the sound of waves.
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Tauranga Tourist Park: A short drive from the city centre, Tauranga Tourist Park features spacious, level sites with reliable power and water hookups.
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Cosy Corner Holiday Park: Right by the beach, there are powered sites, a solar-heated swimming pool, hot tub, games room, children’s playground, communal kitchen and laundry, BBQ area and free WiFi throughout the park.
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Beach Grove Holiday Park: Situated on Papamoa Beach Road, Beach Grove Holiday Park provides powered and non-powered sites, hot showers, modern amenity blocks with kitchen facilities, guest laundry, dump station and communal BBQ areas.
Things to do in Tauranga
These things to do in Tauranga remain within easy reach of Mount Maunganui’s coastal charm. For a full list of Tauranga experiences, see Things for Couples to Do in Tauranga.
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Kiwifruit Country Tours: Explore the lush orchards, learn about kiwifruit cultivation and sample fresh, sun-ripened fruit directly from the vine.
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Historic Village at The Elms: Wander through New Zealand’s first heritage museum in the heart of Tauranga, with preserved buildings and guided tours recounting early colonial life.
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Boardwalk Stroll: Follow the waterfront promenade from Sulphur Point to Downtown Tauranga, pausing at public art installations and cafés along The Strand.
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Tauranga Farmers’ Market: Held every Saturday at Tauranga Primary School, this market features over 60 stalls offering fresh, local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods and handcrafted treasures.
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Wairoa River Grade 5 Adventure: Experience one of New Zealand’s most thrilling whitewater runs on the Wairoa River, navigating Grade 5 rapids through lush native forest for an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
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Discover Kaiate Falls: Located on the outskirts of Tauranga. After parking and following the dirt track, you will wind your way through beautiful dense forest on the way to see the impressive three-tiered waterfall. Allow up to an hour to explore this 2 km track, including time to stop along the way to enjoy the views.
Explore Mount Maunganui and Tauranga with maui
Tauranga is a thriving coastal hub brimming with opportunities for aquatic sports, scenic hikes, exquisite dining and soothing geothermal soaks. As an essential stop on any North Island road trip, it deserves more than a fleeting visit. Renting a motorhome transforms your journey into a seamless exploration. You’ll have a comfortable bed on board, a fully equipped kitchen at your fingertips and the freedom to stay wherever the Bay of Plenty inspires you most.
Book your maui motorhome online today. Then all that’s left is to decide what to pack. If you’d like expert advice on selecting the perfect motorhome for your upcoming adventure, our team is here to help.